The Minister for Agriculture, Michelle Gildernew, attended a recent conference organised by Rural Community Network, and said she was reminded daily of the challenges faced by those who lived and worked in rural areas.
She spoke of her commitment to working together in the development of a Rural White Paper, and called for all stakeholders to commit and input to the development of the proposals.
Rural Community Network recently brought over 100 people together to explore the issues of trust, equality and rights as central to growing sustainable rural communities.
The conference was held in Oxford Island, Lurgan and was attended by local government, equality groups, elected representatives, community groups and public bodies.
Charo Lanao-Madden, Rural Community Network's Good/Community Relations Officer said people had the right to be different 'because we are different'.
"How society responds to those differences creates the conditions and context, shaping how and whether they can access and participate in social and economic resources, how they are included and excluded.
"Our capacity and effectiveness in dealing with inequality and exclusion will depend on the quality, depth and breadth of our relationships.
"Our strong premise", he added, " is that the sustainability of rural areas is dependant on and will be shaped by how inclusive we are".
Professor John Bryden, University of the Highlands and Islands, was the keynote speaker at the event.
He brought a European perspective on the equivalent treatment of rural and urban citizens in terms of human, social and political rights, including access to public services.
Michael Hughes, Chief Executive Officer with Rural Community Network challenged stake holders to play a critical part in establishing a blueprint for the future of shared and sustainable rural communities.
He said he was delighted that the Minister had used the event to give further details on her Department's work in progressing the rural champion and the Rural White Paper.
Speaking afterwards, he said the event highlighted the opportunities lost to rural society and to the region as a whole 'if we do not address the issues of social exclusion, discrimination and community/good relations'.
"I hope that with the help of everyone with an interest in rural, there will be a strong and effective role for rural champions, and a functioning rural policy through the Rural White Paper," the Minister said.
Rural Community Network, which is based in Cookstown, is a rural voluntary organisation established by local community organisations to articulate the voice of rural communities on issues relating to poverty, disadvantage and equality, using a community development approach to its work.
